Helmet Repeal Measure Passes House

An old issue has resurfaced and the House has approved a measure that would repeal the state motorcycle helmet law. Adults would no longer have to wear a helmet while riding their motorcycle. Helmets would still be required for motorcyclists 18 years of age and younger.

Rep. Jeff Roorda (D-Barnhart) sees it as a mistake. He says the debate should include more than just the philosophical debate on whether government should dictate safety or whether individuals should have the freedom to choose whether they wear a helmet or not. Rep. Gary Dusenberg (R-Blue Springs) sponsors HB 155 . Dusenberg says the issue boils down to personal choice and that the government shouldn’t make those decisions for them. Duesenberg also rejects the claim of critics that lifting the requirement will result in more blood on the highways.

The issue has been batted around the Capitol for years. Repealing the motorcycle helmet law has traditionally been approved in the House and has failed to make it through the Senate.